Neck X-ray

Injury	Disease	Nutrition	Poison

Symptoms	Surgery	Test	Special Topic

Skeletal spine

Vertebra, cervical (neck)

Neck X-ray

Definition:

A neck x-ray involves the 7 cervical (neck) vertebrae, which are cushioned by flat pads of cartilage between them.

Alternative Names:

X-ray - neck; Cervical spine x-ray

How the test is performed:

This test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider’s office by an x-ray technician. You will lie on the x-ray table and assume various positions. If the x-ray is to determine injury, care will be taken to prevent further injury. The x-ray machine will be positioned over the neck area. You will be asked to hold your breath while the picture is taken, so that the picture will not be blurry. Usually 3 - 7 different views are needed.

How to prepare for the test:

Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.

How the test will feel:

This test does not cause discomfort, but the table may be cold.

Why the test is performed:

The x-ray is used to evaluate neck injuries and persistent numbness, pain, or weakness.

Review Date: 8/16/2005
Reviewed By: Jonathan Gross, M.D., Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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